High strength reinforcement systems (HSRS®) is proven to be a cost-efficient alternative on projects with a wide range of applications. From decongesting heavily reinforced sections, to allowing for fabrication off site on constricted jobsites using cages, the system aims to provide a feasible alternative for concrete construction. The combination of high strength concrete, HSR® and innovative design tools has helped to bring this concept as an alternative to structural steel construction. We will explore some examples of buildings constructed globally.
High rise structures built on 53 W53rd Street is a great example of the use of high strength systems. Commonly known as the MoMa Tower building, this structure is mainly comprised of high strength concrete in combination with HSR. The complex geometry of the building and the challenge of reinforcing common framing joints identified as nodes, were best addressed using HSR. Working together with the design team, a steel node concept using load bearing gusset plates, threaded bars and accessories was developed and implemented in critical joint connections. Using very precise manufacturing of the columns coupled with quality steel supplied by Max Aicher North America (MANA), a global leader in steel materials, enabled for rapid construction.
Next, we explore the Dancing Towers in Hamburg, Germany. The new gate to the famous Reeperbahn is a two-tower building which represents a tango dancing couple. The idea came after the success of HSR usage on the Opernturm (first building in Germany to use HSRS®) to replace composite columns by using high strength reinforcement. For this building, the contractor went one step further and used precast, butt spliced columns. The innovative on-site concreting of the splice further reduced cost and time. The calculated savings compared to the composite columns was approximately 50 %.
High strength reinforcement can increase the load capacity with the same cross-sectional dimensions or can reduce the number and area of reinforcement with the same load capacity. This can be used for any kind of building. It is not mandatory to use the reinforcement in high rise buildings. The Silesian Museum in Katowice, Poland has only three floors. The span of the beams is very long, and the loadings are enormous. Additionally, the columns experience high forces and are crossed by the post-tensioning tendon ducts. In the initial design composite columns were considered.). High strength reinforcement and an optimized bar layout enabled the construction of the columns while reducing project cost.
